CVE-2025-11569 is a directory traversal vulnerability identified in the cross-zip package, which is used for zip file manipulation in software projects. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of file paths during consecutive calls to the zipSync() and unzipSync() functions. Specifically, these functions allow arguments such as __dirname to be manipulated, enabling an attacker to traverse directories outside the intended extraction or compression paths. This flaw permits unauthorized access to arbitrary files on the host system by crafting zip/unzip operations that escape the designated directories. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable without requiring authentication or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS 4.0 base score of 8.7 reflects high severity, driven by network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. The impact primarily affects confidentiality, as attackers can read sensitive system files, but does not directly affect integrity or availability. No patches or fixes are currently linked, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild as of the publication date. The vulnerability affects all versions of cross-zip, indicating a systemic issue in the package's core functionality. Organizations relying on cross-zip for file archiving or deployment automation should consider this vulnerability critical and take immediate steps to mitigate risk.

For European organizations, the directory traversal vulnerability in cross-zip poses a significant threat to the confidentiality of sensitive data. Attackers exploiting this flaw can access configuration files, credentials, or other critical system files, potentially leading to further compromise or data breaches. Industries with high regulatory requirements, such as finance, healthcare, and government, face increased risk due to the potential exposure of protected information. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation and lack of required privileges mean that attackers can leverage it in automated attacks or supply chain compromises. Organizations using cross-zip in continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines or internal tooling may inadvertently expose internal systems. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently limits immediate widespread impact, but the vulnerability's presence in a widely used package suggests a high potential for future exploitation. Failure to address this vulnerability could result in regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed. Additionally, the exposure of system files could facilitate lateral movement within networks, increasing the overall risk posture.

1. Monitor official sources and repositories for patches or updates to the cross-zip package and apply them promptly once available. 2. Implement strict input validation and sanitization for any file paths passed to zipSync() and unzipSync() functions to prevent directory traversal sequences such as '../'. 3. Restrict file system permissions for processes using cross-zip to limit access to only necessary directories, minimizing potential damage from exploitation. 4. Employ runtime application self-protection (RASP) or file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized file access attempts during zip/unzip operations. 5. Conduct code audits and dependency reviews to identify and replace vulnerable versions of cross-zip with secure alternatives if patches are delayed. 6. Isolate environments where cross-zip is used, such as containerization or sandboxing, to contain potential exploitation impact. 7. Educate development teams about secure handling of file paths in archive operations to prevent similar vulnerabilities. 8. Integrate security scanning tools in CI/CD pipelines to detect usage of vulnerable cross-zip versions and flag risky code patterns.